The Havana Club is one of the most famous rum brands in the world, founded in 1878 by Jose Arechabala. It was nationalized after the end of the Cuban Revolution and from 1994 onwards it was operated by Pernod Ricard and the Cuban government in a 50:50 joint venture. The Havana Club 7 Year is its flagship product, the epitome of Cuban rum. In 1995 and 1997, Club Havana won the Gold Medal from the American Wine Tasting Association for 7 years. It is russet in colour and has a rich and complex aroma with a blend of cocoa, vanilla, cedar, light tobacco and rich tropical fruits, with hints of oak and spice. The palate is very smooth and full-bodied, with a strong aftertaste with a slight pungent sensation and a very Cuban vibe. The Havana Club is perfect for drinks on the rocks or for cocktails such as the Cuba Libre and is well worth a try for around 160 RMB.